School Library Journal
"Large text and middle grade reading levels make the [Retribution] series accessible to struggling teen readers."
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"The rough and tumble streets of east side Vancouver leap off the page...Dialogue is up to date, abrupt and minimal in nature. As the story is told in Jo’s voice, her internal dialogue reveals her fear and disgust and her attraction to Jace, while quickly drawing in the reader and jump starting the story."
CM Magazine
"A fast-paced, high energy, and engaging novel. Readers will be immersed from the intriguing mystery posed in the first chapter, and their interest will only continue to rise as they follow Josie through the twists and turns of her search for vengeance. Josie and her friends are written as realistic and relatable characters, with whom teens will be able to identify, and the city of Vancouver is also recognizable in all of its grit and glamour...Deen has collaborated with well-known young adult authors Judith Graves and Sigmund Brouwer to create a high interest trilogy for teens that can be read in any order. Burned will be enjoyed by teens who love mystery or action novels, and reluctant readers will especially appreciate its rapid pace and exciting content."
VOYA
"These interconnected narratives are page-turning reads, offering adventure, intrigue, and satisfying retribution. Jace, Josie, and Raven are fiercely independent, clever, and intelligent protagonists; each has a rich backstory and an engaging narrative voice that hooks readers from the beginning. Each compact narrative can stand on its own but also incorporates references to the other two, lending a multiple-perspective aspect to the story as a whole. While each book offers a quick resolution, readers will connect quickly to the characters and find their plights both compelling and entertaining. The series tackles such topics as truth and justice, integrity and honesty, and survival. It will appeal to a wide range of readers, including reluctant readers who need a quick hook."
School Library Connection
"This series does not back away from divisive social issues...Those who enjoy gritty realistic fiction will find these books gripping. Recommended."